According to earlier reports, the Syrian Airlines jet was en route from Moscow when the Turkish authorities decided to force it to land on the suspicions that it might be carrying some weaponry aboard.

“The Russian Embassy in Ankara immediately contacted with the Turkish Foreign Ministry and demanded it explain the circumstances of the incident. The embassy also asked for the access to Russian citizens who could be aboard the Syrian jet, which made a regular flight to Damascus from Moscow. According to preliminary information due to be checked, 17 Russian citizens, including children, are aboard the jet. Russian consuls left for the airport to meet Russians, ensure their safety and protect their rights and freedoms,” the diplomat said.